Rita Louise Lum

Rita Louise Lum, 87, peacefully departed this life on December 18, 2024, in Terry, Mississippi. She was surrounded by the love of her family, a testament to the life she built filled with warmth and joy. She was born on June 15, 1937, in Brookhaven, Mississippi, to Walter Curtis Wilkinson and Margaret Ferguson Wilkinson, 

Rita dedicated her career to the City of Jackson, where she retired as a receptionist, a role that showcased her kindness and ability to connect with people. Her vibrant spirit extended far beyond her professional life. An enthusiastic thrift shopper, she found joy in the small treasures of life and often spent her afternoons watching game shows on television, always ready to cheer for her favorite contestants.

Cooking was one of Rita’s greatest passions. She was a wonderful cook who loved to prepare meals for her family and cherished every opportunity to share those moments around the dinner table. Her family fondly remembers her frequent use of the word "marvelous," which encapsulated her positive outlook on life and her genuine appreciation for every experience.

Rita leaves behind a loving family, including her son, Darrell Bass and his wife, Susan; her daughters Michelle Byrd, Lisa Dupree, and Angie Dodson; and her grandchildren Kenny, Katie, Jason, Rebecca, Kristin, Jennifer, Tanner, Tyler, and Emily. Additionally, she was a proud great-grandmother to Taylor, Isabell, Mia, Georgia, Walt, Meredith, Ashton, Brantley, DelaWrynn, Jett, Sully, Eloise, Emerson, Ava James, and Hayes. Rita is also survived by her siblings, Sandra Pruess, John Richard Golden, Curtis W. Versace, and Beth W. Divine, along with her lifelong friend, Minnette Skinner, who stood by her side through the years.

Rita is preceded in death by her beloved parents and her husband, James Lum as well as sons-in-law, Larry Byrd, and Joel Dodson, grandson, Cory Bass and her stepson, Alton Lum.

The legacy that Rita Louise Lum leaves behind is one filled with love, laughter, and countless memories, ensuring that she will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Her services will be December 23rd with visitation at Chancellor Funeral home, Byram, MS beginning at 10am until 11am. There will be a graveside service at 11:30 at First Baptist Church of Byram Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to FBC of Byram or the Learned Baptist Church in her honor.